Louis Vallet (paris, 1856 – 1940) Grognard On Horseback

Graphite and pencil
H. 270 ; W. 210 mm
Signed lower right

Our drawing shows a grognard on horseback during a halt.
The term grognard refers to a soldier in Napoleon's Old Guard. The chasseurs or grenadiers who made up this army were the Emperor's most experienced and loyal soldiers. As the details of his uniform indicate, our soldier probably belonged to the corps of chasseurs.
The man stops here to quench his thirst, as does his mount. In the background is a smiling woman, who has probably provided them with water.

Louis Vallet was a French draughtsman, painter and illustrator, known for his depictions of the military, his scenes of Parisian life and his advertising illustrations. He worked with various illustrated newspapers in France and abroad, including Charivari, La Vie Parisienne and Vogue. He also illustrates literary works, such as Mademoiselle Fifi, by Guy de Maupassant, and is the author of two albums, Le chic à cheval. His humorous drawings were much appreciated by his contemporaries. He was one of the founders of the Société des dessinateurs humoristes, and also exhibited regularly at the Salon de la société des artistes français and the Salon d'hiver.

Good condition. A few brown spots. Drawing very well preserved.